All posts by jon

Helping Hands: Pawfectly Delicious Dog Treats

Community

At Eastern Motors, we believe in the power of community and the positive impact that small acts of kindness can have. In Northern Virginia, a remarkable nonprofit called Pawfectly Delicious Dog Treats is making waves by transforming the lives of young adults with different abilities, all while whipping up delectable dog treats in an Alexandria church kitchen.

As soon as you step into the Pawfectly Delicious kitchen, nestled within an Alexandria church, you’re enveloped in the comforting scent of ginger and cinnamon. Amidst the inviting aroma, the dedicated team of differently abled employees crafts each dog treat with care and enthusiasm, marking the beginning of something truly magical, according to Anne Tuccillo, the Executive Director of the nonprofit.

For Emma Franken, one of Pawfectly Delicious’ employees, the experience is about more than just baking dog treats. “I like working with other special needs kids and getting to know more people,” she shares with a smile. During their baking sessions, the church buzzes with activity as the team rolls, shapes, and bakes all-natural dog treats. These treats are beloved by both furry companions and their human friends.

Anne Tuccillo, along with her son Bryan, co-founded Pawfectly Delicious. Their vision goes beyond crafting delicious dog treats; it’s about providing meaningful employment opportunities to young adults with disabilities. “We have adult children who have aged out of the school system, and as hard as the school system has tried to transition them into some type of job, there aren’t a lot of employers willing to take the chance on training someone who is differently abled,” Anne explains.

Pawfectly Delicious started its journey in Anne and Bryan’s home kitchen, initially driven by volunteers. However, the demand grew, and in 2021, they achieved a significant milestone – generating enough revenue to start compensating their dedicated team. “Our biggest accomplishment was in 2021 – we had enough revenue we could start paying our people,” Anne proudly shares.

The heartwarming story of Pawfectly Delicious caught the attention of 7News and Easterns Automotive Group. United by a shared commitment to uplift the community, we collaborated to offer a 7News Helping Hand. Through a $2,200 donation, we aimed to bolster the impactful work that Anne, Bryan, and the entire team are doing.

“I’ll tell you after working so hard last night on submitting the grant, I was like, ‘Why am I doing this?’ Now I know why and it’s because of people like you and the community to help us make the world a better place, so thank you,” Anne expressed gratefully upon receiving the donation.

The support from Easterns Automotive Group is more than a monetary contribution; it’s a vote of confidence in the profound impact that Pawfectly Delicious is making. With this donation, Pawfectly Delicious will continue to provide employment opportunities for its current team members and potentially extend its reach to empower even more individuals.

At Easterns, we are honored to be a part of this incredible journey of empowerment and transformation. Through initiatives like the 7News Helping Hand, we strive to foster positive change in our community, one act of kindness at a time.

Helping Hands: Uncut Youth

Community, Uncategorized

Prom season is a time of excitement and anticipation for many high school students across the DMV. However, for some, the cost of a prom dress can be a significant barrier to fully enjoying this special event. Uncut Youth has been on a mission to alleviate the financial burden of prom dresses by generously giving away dozens of free dresses to students in need. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, many young girls in the community can now attend prom with confidence and joy.

Volunteers like Shari Morris are at the heart of this incredible initiative, ensuring that girls of all sizes find the perfect dress. They’ve even included brand-new dresses that are waiting to make someone’s prom night extra special. Recognizing the importance of looking and feeling their best on this significant occasion, Uncut Youth has created a one-stop shop for high school girls to find everything they need for prom night. From dresses and shoes to accessories, they’ve thoughtfully curated a selection that brings smiles to the faces of young students.

Founder Laurese Gerald established Uncut Youth two years ago, driven by her passion to provide support and mentorship to teenage girls throughout the DMV. She knows that prom and graduation are pivotal moments in a young person’s life, and through Uncut Youth, she strives to be the trusted mentor many of them need.

At Easterns Automotive Group, we were deeply inspired by the impactful work of Uncut Youth, and we knew we had to contribute to their mission. As part of our ongoing commitment to the community, we surprised Uncut Youth and its volunteers with a 7News Helping Hand.

The 7News Helping Hand not only symbolizes our appreciation for their efforts but also enables them to expand their reach and serve more young people in need. By providing additional resources, we hope to support their community initiatives, outreach programs, and future endeavors. Thank you to Uncut Youth for making a positive impact in the lives of so many young individuals, and thank you to our dedicated team members and customers who make it possible for us to give back to the community we cherish.

At Easterns Automotive Group, we are not just about selling cars; we are about creating moments that matter and shaping a brighter future for all.

Stay tuned for more heartwarming stories of how we continue to uplift and support our community!

#EasternsAutomotive #PromDreams #CommunityOutreach #7NewsHelpingHand #EmpoweringYouth

Helping Hands: Asian American Lead

Community

At Eastern Motors, we recognize the importance of highlighting and supporting underserved communities. Last May, during Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we had the honor of teaming up with Joel Bassam and 7News to surprise AALEAD (Asian American Youth Leadership Empowerment and Development) with a Helping Hand.


AALEAD is a remarkable organization dedicated to shaping the lives of low-income Asian youth in the Washington, D.C., region. Their year-round efforts in providing after-school programs, summer programs, and mentoring opportunities create a safe and empowering space for these young individuals.


As Akil Vohra, President of AALEAD, aptly says, “We’re here together. We really want to help the AAPI community and develop the next generation of leaders.”


To celebrate AAPI Heritage Month and support AALEAD’s impactful work, Joel Bassam of Eastern Motors surprised them with a generous donation of $2,200. This contribution will directly contribute to the programs and field trips that benefit the AAPI youth in the community.


“We want to support your program by donating $2,200 so you can keep supporting D.C. youth. Keep doing the amazing work that you are doing,” Bassam expressed.


Eastern Motors is honored to be a part of this journey, standing alongside AALEAD in empowering and uplifting the AAPI community. Let’s continue to celebrate diversity, foster inclusivity, and nurture the next generation of leaders.

Helping Hands: Equality NoVa

Community, Uncategorized

At Easterns Automotive Group, we are proud to recognize and celebrate the incredible efforts of community organizations like Equality NoVa, dedicated to uplifting the LGBTQ+ community in Northern Virginia. Recently, we had the privilege of teaming up with 7News to surprise Equality NoVa with a Helping Hand, further supporting their valuable work.

Daniel Hays, a passionate Arlington resident, has been an integral part of Equality NoVa, formerly known as Arlington Gay Lesbian Alliance. As the vice president, Hays has been committed to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ community members and allies, creating safe spaces, organizing book clubs, drag show benefits, and political Town Halls.

At Easterns Automotive Group, we believe in the power of giving back to the community, which is why we stand in solidarity with Equality NoVa. Hays’s personal journey, overcoming mental illness with the support of the drag queen and LGBTQ+ community, inspired us to lend our Helping Hand.

Equality NoVa relies solely on donations to sustain their impactful work, as they have zero paid staff. We were thrilled to offer our support to ensure their continued growth and expanded community outreach. Together, we can spread love, acceptance, and create a world where everyone is embraced for who they are.

As Hays beautifully puts it, “Right now it’s important that we are out there visibly but that we don’t respond to the hate with hate. We have to respond to the hate with love.”

Join us in celebrating the work of Equality NoVa and their dedication to promoting equality, inclusivity, and positive change. Let’s continue supporting organizations that make a difference in our community.

Helping Hands: Safe Space NOVA

Uncategorized

As we embrace the spirit of Pride Month, Easterns Automotive Group teamed up with 7News on this Helping Hands to bring a burst of joy to Safe Space NOVA. Recognizing the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth, Easterns Automotive is determined to make a difference. Joining forces with 7News, we proudly surprised Safe Space NOVA with a heartfelt gesture of support.


To kick off Pride Month with a celebration of inclusivity and support, Joel Bassam, President of Easterns Automotive Group, expressed his admiration for Safe Space NOVA. He said, “What better way to kick off Pride Month than by highlighting an amazing organization like Safe Space NOVA? We want to support you and the programs you run in the LGBTQ+ community by donating $2,200 so you can keep supporting the youth in our area. Keep doing the amazing work that you are doing.”


With this heartfelt donation, we’re proud to support their vital work in providing a safe and inclusive space for LGBTQ+ youth in Northern Virginia. Let’s stand together to celebrate love, acceptance and positively impact our community.

Looking for a Versatile and Family-Friendly Vehicle?

Different Vehicle Makes
2018 GMC Terrain SLT

The GMC Terrain is a compact crossover SUV manufactured by General Motors under the GMC brand. The 2010 GMC Terrain was the first in a line of increasingly advanced and functional SUVs. The Terrain is designed to offer a combination of style, comfort, advanced technology and versatility in a more compact package compared to the larger GMC SUVs.

If you’re looking for a visually appealing, family friendly SUV, the GMC Terrain may be an option worth exploring.

What Are Some Common Trim Levels Available for the GMC Terrain?

  • L: The base trim often referred to as the “SL” comes with essential features and serves as an entry-level option. It typically has a simplified set of features while still offering the core GMC experience.
  • SLE: The “SLE” trim adds more features and options compared to the base trim. It typically includes enhanced technology, comfort features and additional styling elements.
  • SLT: The “SLT” trim represents a mid-range option that offers more premium features and advanced technology. The standard SLT trim includes leather upholstery, advanced infotainment and added convenience features.
  • Denali: The Denali trim is the top-tier offering for GMC vehicles, including the Terrain. It represents the epitome of luxury and comes with the highest level of features, premium materials and advanced technology. Denali trims often have unique styling cues as well.

What Engine Does the GMC Terrain Have?

The standard GMC Terrain features a 1.5L four-cylinder engine. Some trims come with a turbocharged version of the engine, meaning the vehicle has improved performance without significantly increasing the engine’s physical size.

What Makes the GMC Terrain a Family-Friendly SUV?

Spacious interior: The Terrain offers ample interior space, providing comfortable seating for both passengers and cargo. Families can enjoy sufficient legroom, headroom and storage capacity for their needs.

Safety features: The Terrain comes equipped with a range of advanced safety features, such as forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert. These features help enhance driver awareness and safety for both the driver and passengers.

Connectivity and entertainment: Modern families value connectivity, and many Terrain models offer advanced infotainment systems with features like touchscreen displays, smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) and multiple USB ports. This keeps everyone entertained and connected on the go.

Comfortable ride: The Terrain’s suspension and interior design contribute to a comfortable ride quality, ensuring that family members of all ages can enjoy a smooth and pleasant journey.

Family-friendly seating: Many modern Terrain trims feature power-adjustable seats, heated front seats and optional leather upholstery. These amenities enhance comfort for passengers during longer drives.

Versatile storage: The Terrain includes versatile storage solutions like split-folding rear seats and a flat cargo floor. This allows families to accommodate both passengers and larger items like strollers, sports equipment or groceries.

Available all-wheel drive: Families can benefit from the Terrain’s available all-wheel-drive system, providing enhanced traction and stability in adverse conditions.

Cabin quietness: A quiet cabin reduces fatigue during long trips and allows passengers to converse comfortably. The Terrain is designed to minimize road and wind noise for a more peaceful ride.

Safety ratings: The GMC Terrain often receives high safety ratings from organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), providing families with added peace of mind.

Family-focused trims: Some Terrain trims offer specific family-friendly features such as rear-seat entertainment systems, additional rear-seat USB ports and more.

Browse Our Inventory of GMC Terrain Trims and Schedule a Test Drive

At Easterns Automotive, we understand the importance of finding the right vehicle that matches your preferences. Check our current inventory and see if we have a GMC Terrain that meets your needs.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we’re here to ensure you have a seamless and satisfying test drive experience. If you’d like to take one of our available preowned GMC Terrains for a drive or explore similar SUVs, don’t hesitate to call 888-650-4775 or simply visit one of our dealerships in person.

Is the Hyundai Kona a Good Car?

Different Vehicle Makes
2018 Hyundai Kona SEL

Although “good” may be a subjective term, there are some quantifiable, broadly accepted vehicle attributes and performance factors that can be used to establish a vehicle’s quality. Things like longevity, storage space, fuel efficiency and price point are just some of the measurable variables that enable rating agencies and drivers to make value judgments on vehicles.

When it comes to compact SUVs, the Hyundai Kona has frequently been heralded as a good vehicle. Ranked third in the subcompact SUV category and winning awards for Best Cars For Teens and Best Cars For Your Money, it’s a reliable and smart choice for many buyers. In nearly every relevant measure, the Hyundai Kona stands out as a strong contender against its competitors.

Key Points About the Hyundai Kona

  • Design: The Hyundai Kona boasts a stylish and modern design with bold lines and a confident stance.
  • Powertrain Options: The Hyundai Kona offers a range of powertrain options to suit different preferences and needs – from gasoline engines that deliver a good balance of power and fuel efficiency to the Kona Electric variant that provides an all-electric driving experience with impressive range and zero emissions.
  • Technology and Connectivity: The Hyundai Kona incorporates advanced technology features that enhance the driving experience. It offers a touchscreen infotainment system with intuitive controls, smartphone integration (such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) and available wireless charging.
  • Safety Features: Safety is a priority in the Hyundai Kona. The vehicle comes with a robust collection of safety features to help prevent accidents from occurring, as well as devices designed to minimize the risk of driver and passenger injuries if they are involved in a crash. Recent model years incorporate forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert and a rearview camera.
  • Versatility and Cargo Space: Despite its compact size, the Hyundai Kona provides ample interior space for passengers and cargo, allowing for versatile transportation for any situation.
  • Fuel Efficiency: The Hyundai Kona boasts competitive gas mileage at 30 MPG for cities and 35 MPG for highways. Its hybrid variation offers an impressive 50 MPG for cities and 58 MPG for highways. No matter which gasoline engine option you choose, the Hyundai Kona is guaranteed to help you save money on fuel.
  • Warranty and Reliability: A Hyundai Kona can easily reach 200,000 miles, which – with proper care and maintenance – equates to about 15 years of reliable performance. The compact SUV also comes with a comprehensive warranty package, including a lengthy powertrain warranty, providing peace of mind to owners.

Best Hyundai Kona Years as Ranked by Value

While the Hyundai Kona has consistently proven to be a dependable and well-rounded vehicle, some model years stand out as offering exceptional value for pre-owned car shoppers.

2020

The 2020 model year boasts improved fuel efficiency and enhanced safety features at a competitive, affordable price, which is why J.D. Power gave the vehicle a score of 81 out of 100 on reliability and quality.

2021

The 2021 model year introduced several updates and improvements to the Kona lineup, including a broader range of engines. Drivers can choose between gas, hybrid and even electric models that all received high scores for their sporty handling, spacious interior and reliability.

Hyundai Kona Compact SUV Hits and Misses

Hits:

  • Attractive design and modern styling
  • Balanced performance and handling
  • Impressive fuel efficiency across models
  • An abundance of technology and safety features
  • Versatile interior space and cargo capacity
  • Competitive pricing compared to its rivals

Misses:

  • Some may find the ride quality to be slightly firm
  • Rear legroom may be limited for taller passengers
  • Base engine power may feel underwhelming for those seeking sportier performance

Find Exceptional Pre-Owned Hyundai Kona Models in the DMV

Easterns Automotive Group is ready to buy your old car and help you find the best pre-owned car, truck and SUV for your needs in our robust inventory. We usually have several great Hyundai Kona models in stock. You can also customize your own car shopping experience with the help of a personal car shopping concierge, whether you prefer to shop with us online or in person at one of our eight dealerships.

Our team will work hard to help you find a vehicle you’ll love for a long time to come. Contact us today to learn more and start shopping.

Is the Kia Soul a Good Car?

Different Vehicle Makes
used 2015 kia soul

Yes – by nearly every objective measure and based on the anecdotal experience of past and current Kia Soul drivers, the Kia Soul is a good car. It consistently earns strong ratings from rating agencies and purchasers alike.

The Kia Soul offers a unique style without sacrificing function or affordability. Many drivers in D.C., Baltimore and the Greater DMV area have depended on and advocated for the Kia Soul for as long as it’s been in production.

If you’re in the market for a pre-owned Kia Soul, be sure to browse the multiple options currently in Easterns’ inventory.

Key Points About the Kia Soul

The Kia Soul’s boxy and distinctive design sets it apart from other subcompact SUVs on the market. Funky and youthful, it’s an attractive option for buyers looking for a vehicle with personality. Additionally, despite being compact, the Kia Soul makes the best of its condensed size with flexible seating arrangements and a functional cabin layout, allowing drivers to enjoy the vehicle’s ability to maneuver through tight city streets and parking spaces without feeling cramped.

The vehicle also offers competitive fuel efficiency, especially in its newer model years. With advancements in engine technology, the Soul delivers a competitive gas mileage of 26 MPG for cities and 33 MPG for highways – meaning a full tank can last drivers up to 470 miles a trip.

The Kia Soul has a range of safety features that help protect drivers and occupants. Not only are there dual front and side airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability control and tire pressure monitoring, but the vehicle is also equipped with advanced technological features that help prevent an accident from happening in the first place, such as lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring and rearview cameras. Coupled with consistently high-reliability scores across model years – many of which surpass the average for most subcompact SUVs – drivers can feel secure in a Kia Soul. Enhanced safety is just one of the reasons why the Kia Soul has become a popular choice.

As a low-maintenance, affordable vehicle, the Kia Soul ensures you get a lot of bang for your buck. It can last drivers up to 200,000 miles, equivalent to 15 years of commuting for most drivers. The subcompact SUV is also backed with an extensive warranty, allowing buyers to have peace of mind knowing that they can confidently depend on even a pre-owned Kia Soul for a long time to come.

Popular Kia Soul Years as Ranked by Value

2016

The 2016 model year brought a refreshed design and notable improvements to the Kia Soul, including increased fuel efficiency and the integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

2018

The 2018 Kia Soul introduced additional standard safety features, including blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, while also providing a more comfortable ride and an upgraded infotainment system.

2020

The 2020 Kia Soul underwent a complete redesign, showcasing a more modern and stylish appearance as well as improved technology, including an available 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system and enhanced safety features like lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control. This model year also offered a range of engine options, including a fuel-efficient turbocharged model for better speed and gas mileage.

Kia Soul Hits and Misses

Hits:

  • Unique and eye-catching design
  • Spacious and versatile interior for its compact size
  • Competitive fuel efficiency
  • Affordability and good value for money
  • Generous warranty coverage

Misses:

  • Some earlier model years had engine and tire issues (these problems generally aren’t present in the Kia Souls you’ll find at Easterns Automotive)
  • Limited engine options in certain model years
  • Ride quality may not be as refined as some competitors

Find The Right Pre-Owned Kia Soul for Your Needs

If you’re looking for a Kia Soul or another subcompact SUV with a great reputation for quality and reliability, Eastern Automotive has you covered. Select from thousands of pre-owned cars, trucks and SUVs, or customize your own with the help of a personal car shopping concierge. Whether you choose to buy from us in person, online or a mix of both, our team will ensure you walk away with a pre-owned car you can depend on for a long time to come. Visit us online or check one of our eight dealerships to learn more.

Get Uplifted: Kingdom Cares

Community

At Easterns Automotive Group, we believe in the power of compassion and supporting organizations that make a positive impact in our community. Recently, we had the opportunity to collaborate with WUSA 9 to surprise Kingdom Cares, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing essential resources and support to those in need.

Easterns Automotive Group has always been committed to giving back and uplifting our community. When we learned about the remarkable work that Kingdom Cares does, we knew we had to support their mission. Kingdom Cares focuses on addressing the critical needs of individuals experiencing homelessness, poverty, and other challenges by providing them with essential resources, including food, and support services.


So far, Kingdom Cares has provided essential food items such as fresh produce, dairy products, protein, and shelf-stable items to approximately 180,000 households. With a dedicated team of over 40 volunteers, Kingdom Cares has played a crucial role in addressing the rising issue of food insecurity, particularly among Montgomery and Prince George’s County residents, especially those belonging to marginalized communities.

In the face of the COVID-19 pandemic, the organization has been instrumental in developing creative approaches to deliver food assistance and other relevant services, ensuring that those in need receive the support they require. Currently, Kingdom Cares is constructing a spacious facility spanning 96,000 square feet. This upcoming building will serve as a home to a fresh food market along with various additional services.

With great joy, we made a surprise donation to Kingdom Cares to support their ongoing efforts in helping those in need. Our contribution will help ensure that more individuals and families receive the essential assistance and resources they require during challenging times.

We are committed to making a positive impact and fostering change within our community. Through acts of kindness and compassion, we can uplift and transform lives, one person at a time.

Get Uplifted: Girls on the Run

Community, Uncategorized,

At Easterns Automotive Group, we are dedicated to positively impacting our community and uplifting those around us. Recently, we had the opportunity to support Girls on the Run, a non-profit organization empowering young girls through physical activity, positive reinforcement, and leadership development.

When we learned about the incredible work that Girls on the Run does, we knew we wanted to be a part of their mission. Girls on the Run is dedicated to inspiring young girls to be joyful, healthy, and confident through a curriculum that integrates running and lessons on self-esteem, respect, and teamwork.

“We’ve grown from a small group of 13 girls to serving 22,000 girls, 2,200 annually, it’s a phenomenal program that encourages girls to be their best,” said executive director Devoria Armstead.

Girls on the Run is dedicated to fostering confidence and empowerment among young girls. Devoria even shared a story that highlights the program’s positive influence, as she witnessed a shy participant come out of her shell, make friends, and even run for class president, ultimately winning. It’s a testament to the transformative power of Girls on the Run in building self-assurance and unleashing the full potential of young women.

Most girls who complete the Girls on the Run program say they feel comfortable there and learn critical skills like conflict resolution and making intentional decisions: Skills they’ll carry with them throughout their lives.

With great enthusiasm, we made a donation to Girls on the Run to support their programs and ensure that more girls have the opportunity to participate and thrive. At Easterns , we are more than just a car dealership. We are deeply invested in our community and strive to make a positive impact wherever we can. If you want to volunteer with Girls on the Run, you do not have to be a runner; just passionate about empowering girls.